Frenchgate Shopping Centre has appointed a new general manager and it is a familiar face who will be taking the helm of the 800,000 sq ft retail and leisure destination.
Karen Staniforth, who was previously assistant general manager, has been promoted to general manager following five successful years at Frenchgate.
After joining the team as marketing manager in 2015, Karen was promoted to assistant general manager just two years later. Her new role will see her welcoming high-profile new food and beverage brand, Elephant and Castle, as well as working alongside retailers in navigating the continuing unprecedented times facing the industry.
With a wealth of experience in marketing, retail and construction, Karen – who has a post-graduate diploma in business management – has previously devised award-winning creative campaigns for Frenchgate, alongside overseeing a range of innovative cultural events and exhibitions.
Karen said: “I am thrilled to have been appointed as general manager. It is a role I am very familiar with and it is a fantastic opportunity.
“I am incredibly passionate about ensuring Frenchgate offers our loyal customers the best possible shopping and leisure experience.
“It is well documented that the retail sector has been hit particularly hard over the last year due to the global pandemic and it is important that we work with retailers to ensure they prosper over the forthcoming weeks and months.
“The stores within Frenchgate collectively make the centre a significant employer within Doncaster and a huge contributor to the local economy. It is an important aspect of my role that I continue to work with a number of key stakeholders’ to ensure its future success.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed the last five years at Frenchgate and I am relishing the opportunity to take things to the next level.”
